Neighborhoods

Traffic Calming Program

The goal of Traffic Calming is to make our city neighborhoods more livable and safe for all users. The program began in 2010 with funding from the Photo Red Light and School Speed Radar tickets; all ticket monies go directly to the Traffic Calming program.

What is Traffic Calming?

According to the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) definition of traffic calming is “the combination of mainly physical measures that reduce the negative effects of motor vehicle use, alter driver behavior, and improve conditions for non-motorized street users.”

By design, traffic calming is a self-enforcing traffic management approach that forces motorists to alter their speed or direction of travel. The purpose of traffic calming is to improve safety, especially for pedestrians and bicyclists, and to improve the environment or “livability” of streets for residents and visitors. By decreasing volume and/or reducing speed the number and severity of accidents can be greatly diminished.

Traffic Calming techniques may include education, enforcement, or engineering to shift traffic patterns and/or reduce speeds. Most traffic calming measures focus on engineering changes to alter driver behavior. Traffic Calming techniques may include physical changes such as roadway narrowing, traffic circles, pavement markings, signage and others. Education and enforcement efforts should be considered prior to engineering alternatives and as a complement to engineering efforts.

Traffic Calming Map

The Traffic Calming map displays all the projects that have been completed through the Traffic Calming Program. When you click/tap on circles or the lines on the map information about the project type, construction year, neighborhood and City Council District will show up. Have fun exploring the variety of traffic calming projects that have been built by application from the neighborhood councils.

How to Get Involved

Why is Traffic Calming Important

• Improves neighborhood safety and livability
• Advances equity by improving access to transportation for all
• Enhances sustainability by reducing vehicle miles traveled
• Encourages Smart Growth
• Increases economic competitiveness for our community
• Builds collaboration between government and community
• Improves health by improving bike and pedestrian facilities

Traffic Calming Education

Education is one of the three "E's" of Traffic Calming in addition to Engineering and Enforcement. The goal of traffic calming education is to both inform drivers that they are travelling on neighborhood streets. Our current campaign "Neighbors Drive 25" reminds people to slow down as they travel through neighborhoods. If you are interested in placing one of the signs in your yard, please reach out to your neighborhood council chair, your local COPS shop, or pick one up on the first floor of City Hall!

NOTE: If you are concerned with speeding in your area, contact the Spokane Police Department's Traffic Unit Hotline (509.625.4150). If there is property or vehicle damage, contact Spokane County's Crime Check (509.456.2233).